Well, I would have to dig through some *uhum*..Old.. pictures, lol...

I'll see if I can find it.(if I do I'll post it somewhere for ya!)..but basically..if you have your hair cut so that it frames your face..you just blow dry your hair and then comb a ponytail on the VERY top of your head..tada: fountain! *smile*

We all get "in a rut" at times...my quick suggestion. If you cannot seem to get back on track right away-

What you could do to help yourself, and to help yourself feel better..and this was always my mother's advice:

If you feel overweight: Always leave the table hungry.

If you feel underweight: Always take one more bite than you want to.

Good luck and remember: beauty is on the inside..I have known supermodel types and models that after I met them became completely and utterly ugly to me..and I have friends that are overweight, (some very much so) but because of their kindness and caring..I find absolutely and positively beautiful!! The best people and friends see not only with their eyes, but MOSTLY with their heart.

Don't let society deem your weight as "good" or "bad" (unless it begins to affect your health):
Remember that Marylin Monroe was considered the most beautiful woman in America in her time, and nowadays she would be considered quite chunky!

Blessings,
Jasmine

I'd like to add that a good yeast infection slow cure/preventative is yogurt! Yep, plain ole' yogurt! (or with fruit if you like *smile*) It's also helpful if at night you wear a long nightie and no undies to allow your vagina to "breathe" to help clear it up. Wearing pantyhose, silk panties, etc. blocks the air to that area and makes you more prone to infection. Try to wear cotton panties as often as possible.

Eat yogurt with meals for about seven days..that should help. If it doesn't clear up you'll need to buy an over-the-counter remedy (Monistat) or see your physician.

And don't let your b/f go down on you if you have a yeast infection, it could cause him to develop thrush (basically a yeast infection of the mouth *ugh*).

Others have made some good recommendations- for instance, do not cleanse your vagina with perfumed soap, or spray any type of perfumed products in that area. If you are prone to infections, I highly recommend that you DO NOT use any "perfumed" douche products- plain ole' vinegar is best for vaginal health and smell. If all else fails, it is also possible that your laundry detergent, believe it or not, is causing a problem.

Well, I've never been one to adhere to the latest fashions myself. Whether something is/was in style or not I just wear/wore what I felt most comfortable in.

As far as your hairstyle..I would say the same. Do YOU feel good when you wear it? If you need to try it out, wear it on a day that you aren't going anywhere special and see reactions of others and MORE IMPORTANTLY how those reactions affect you!

I used to love wearing my hair in a ponytail on the very top of my head (I had/have my hair cut where it curled towards my face). It would look like a "fountain" on my head, with bangs! I never saw anyone else doing it, and it wasn't "in fashion", but boyfriends ALWAYS requested me to wear my hair that way! Most every guy I've dated (that saw my hair that way) has made the comment that they love when I wear my hair like that! *smile*

Relaxation and Meditation!

Relaxation: breathing techniques: breath in your nose, count to four, blow out your mouth. Do this about 4 times.

Exercise also does wonders (if you have time and feel up to it)..it produced natural endorphins.

Meditation:
http://www.usenature.com/article_meditate_how.htm

Post if you need more meditation techniques!

Yes, sometimes it hurts going in..especially if your flow isn't really heavy and you've just began learning to use them. I've found that if (graphic stuff coming) you prop one leg on the toilet while inserting, it makes it a bit easier.

I would highly recommend that on lighter flow days that you use the smallest sized tampons available -junior size, or just use thin sanitary pads like "Always" especially because of the rare, but real possibility of Toxic Shock Syndrome.

It sounds like your using the type of tampon that doesn't have the "insertion thingy"? And some of them do spread depending on what kind you buy. I believe that the Tampax ones don't "seperate", but Playtex and the ones without inserters do.

Personally, I prefer the Playtex ones that have the plastic inserters. MUCH MUCH more comfortable going in than cardboard ones!

On the Playtex ones there is a "line" on the tube that shows how far to place it in before pushing it in.

Yes, they are easier to take out when full, but again DO NOT exceed the recommended time of wearing them because of TSS.

On the ones that don't come with inserters you push it in until it goes as far as you can put it, without pushing excessively.

Hope I've helped!

It sounds like a yeast infection to me because of the "itchiness". Probably because you've been wearing sanitary napkins..you may have made it more "sweaty and airless" in that area. That is what usually causes a yeast infection (that and taking anti-biotics).

You could go to the local pharmacy and purchase a simple treatment, I would recommend the one with the external cream for relief. If the symptoms don't go away after 5-7 days..it's high time to see your physician.

And, yes, your partner can get your yeast infection, but men don't get them as easily- quite rare if I'm correct. Unless he starts complaining of "itchiness" I wouldn't worry that he got it from you.

It's likely probable that is merely an ingrown hair. One of the wonders of having to shave *heh*. Next time you see one, look closely, is there a hair right in the middle of it? If so, (and this is going to hurt) to remedy it quicker, take some tweezers and pull it from the root *OUCH*

If you discover that it is an ingrown hair, the best preventative is:
To be sure to use sharp razors, lather well, and try to shave in the direction that the hair grows.

It may be embarrassing to buy..but there are preg. tests out there that will tell you if your pregnant almost right away. Maybe you could shop at the local "superstore" late at night? This way it is likely only one person would see you..the one opening the case (I've never understood why they lock them up, or put them behind the counter!, so very cruel to young people to be forced to request it!!)

It might be worth looking into, at least to ease your mind (believe me I've been there when I was quite young..fortunately I was just worried for nothing!)

If your menstrual cycle is already due, there are many anonymous programs out there that will give you a free walk in urine test.

See:
http://www.plannedparenthood.org

Also, if you have the courage to buy the test, or go to a facility...and, goddess bless you, if you are pregnant, it will give you more time to weigh your options.

Blessings,
Jasmine

RED FLAGS GOING UP...

KNOW THIS: YOU ARE NOT PATHETIC!!

Okay, got that out of the way *smile*.

And it is likely signs of a break-up, but I don't think that you should worry...because, from what I read, your not going to be happy with him in the long run anyway. You admitted that you only "like" him so it's probably best!

I'm sorry that I disagree with the consensus..but, well, I used to date a guy when I was your age and his favorite line was:

"but we love each other"; always when he was trying to persuade me to give in to a sexual relationship.

uhum...

I could be wrong about your guys feelings, but, from experience I've learned that if he really loves you as he says he does, he couldn't stay away from you for the life of him. He would pursue you rather than avoid you. Real love consists of three things:

Intimacy, passion and commitment

It seems to me that you both are lacking intimacy and commitment in spades.

And the passion is mostly coming from his side..SO what you have here is what is referred to as:

Merely "infatuation" and "liking".

Passion involves the emotional arousal that can lead to romance, physical attraction, and sexual interaction. It may relate to desires to gain self-esteem, be sexually active, to affiliate with others, to dominate or to subordinate.

Infatuation occurs when we only have passion, such as in love at first sight. This type appears quickly and disappears almost as fast.

Empty love is felt when commitment is the only component that is present.

Why do you feel you should commit to him?

Intimacy needs most of the following things (and friends can have intimacy):

Communicating with your partner about intimate things.
Understanding each other.
Valuing and being happy with their presence in your life.
Giving and receiving emotional support.
Holding them in high regard and promoting their welfare.
Being there for each other in time of need.
Sharing yourself and your possessions.

See:
http://www.geocities.com/kmwahl/Motivation/triangular.html

...to get a better understanding of this.

I'm a little leery because it seems to me that after you didn't "give in" after he said he loved you..well he just wasn't interested anymore like anyone in love should be. That's what I gather anyway!

And, yes, if he wanted to truly Love you then he would want to "hang out" as much as possible! Mere infatuation should even lead to this behavior...and I don't see it!

You said yourself that you only "like him", maybe it's best just to move on and find that perfect guy rather than settling for "just what you and he are willing to give to each other for this moment" which = empty-love. Who knows maybe the relationship will grow with time, but it doesn't seem to be moving in that direction right now at all.

You can "break up" and still remain friends. I don't see why this is such a problem with most people. Eventually your relationship may grow into what it should be.

In the meantime, find yourself a love worthwhile, and stop wasting your love life on a guy you merely "like". If he loves you like he says, he will come back around because he won't be able to help himself. If not, then it's time to move on sweetie...lots of great fish in the sea!

Just.. "First, lock the target, 2. bait the line, 3. slowly spread the net, and 4. you catch the man!" *grin-song lyrics*

Then again, he may be calling in the dire hope that you will give in to the love he wants/needs...and if you don't see that happening with you..same advice, you say yourself that your NOT in love with him, don't lead him on, and PLEASE don't break his heart- if that is what is happening, just remain friends (who knows what may happen in the future if your relationship grows-I've been in that situation where I told a guy, "I love you, but I'm just not IN LOVE with you! Over time, we became extremely intimate, passionate, and committed- a wonderful relationship after I waited until the time was right).

But, for now, my advice is to move on and in the meantime remain friends, you likely have much to learn about each other and will find a great relationship whether it blossoms into romance or not!

Hope this helps,
Jasmine

Hmmm..

I would suggest that you just act like it's no big deal when you ask.

If she responds negatively (looks shocked/appalled or looks like she's going to start lecturing)..

Say..something to the effect that.."Oh mom, now you know we are just gonna hang out and watch movies and stuff, and we will be in the living room (public area) the entire time." Maybe add that it's best that they just stay over "since it's so late".

If all else fails try this tactic:

"Mom, don't you think it's much better that we hang out here, than somewhere else where those boys might get the wrong idea?!" *wink*

As a girl, I had always desired the guy to confess his feelings first, I was very shy and tepid.

But, as a woman *wink*, it's different, I still prefer to be "pursued" as it is the way of feminine wiles *laugh*.

But now, I also watch his body language, his mannerisms around others (Does he exclaim to others in my presence how much he adores me? Does he sit possessively close when in social situations with his closest friends and around other women?), among other things..(ie. the eyes are the windows to the soul *smile*), etc,..and then decide whether I might want to make the "jump" first.

Good luck on that survey *smile*
Jasmine

Forgive me if I'm wrong, but it sounds like your still in your teens.

I remember my first heartbreak..it was just horrible- I couldn't eat for three days and I cried and cried and cried...and now I remember it as a wonderful life and learning experience *probably sounds strange to you right now though*.

My mother came to me, while I was crying terribly, and told me that "time eases all wounds". At the time, I thought that I could NEVER EVER heal, but she was right...I did eventually feel better, sooner than I thought, and the wounds healed nicely.

Although, I have to admit, he was my first real love (not real romantic relationship..already had one of those..but head over heels, LOVE) and I still think about him and talk to him to this day..only now, we are just friends.

First, I would recommend that you don't "play games" that only confuses things. Pretending to not care when you do, etc. Don't do that.

Second, if you two are at the age I think you are, it IS likely that your mom is correct in a way. He is probably trying to distance himself from you, especially since your moving. Men, especially teenage males, don't know what to do about the relationship anymore than you do, and the last thing that most of them want to admit is that they are heartbroken: AND they have been taught NOT to cry- so instead they pretend not to care thinking it will ease the pain (doesn't work for them though-but they try). Fortunately, with good training, *heh* some males get over this social stigma in time.

And lastly, for your own benefit you must realize that you cannot make him do anything that he doesn't want to do..no matter what tactics you try. It may just only make things worse.

One of my favorite mottos is "Say what you mean, and mean what you say!"

Just be honest with him, but don't carry it too far. (Talk about it, then let it go) Like I said, he is likely trying to pull away from you because he is afraid of the pain. Males handle things much differently than we females do. Be persistent with your adoration, but don't call more than twice a day (unless he asks you too), and try not to let yourself become hysterical or cry uncontrollably around him (at this age he can't handle it, and will likely pull away more).

When you talk to him, be the warm loving person that you are, treat the relationship as you would have before you found out you were going to move..flirt, admire, whatever you used to do, and try not to think of the pain..draw him closer to you, rather than pushing him away. Stay open and caring so that he doesn't feel threatened by being near you.

You know that you are moving, so the best thing you can do for yourself is take care of your impending heartbreak, and prepare yourself for it. Remember that you are still young and I promise you (and I rarely promise unless I'm absolutely sure)that you will find love again.

In the meantime, enjoy the time that you have together and cherish it. You will have fond memories -but your love life is definitely NOT over nor is it at it's best!! Believe it or not, you will experience SO, SO much more rewarding relationships as you get older!

No sense in rushing into arguments, talking his ear off about it (he will just shut down and not listen) or "breaking up"..like I said, you have plenty of time for love and romance that will even be better than this (although I'm sure you don't feel this way right now), cherish the time that the two of you have, and look forward to the many experiences that will top this one 100 times over!

Hope this helps some,
Jasmine

Here is a link for information and natural remedies and prevention methods:

http://www.hemroids.us/external-hemroids.htm

and another:

http://www.hemorrhoidshemroids.com/hemroids-hemorrhoids-treatment.html

Be sure to read them both, as this condition can actually become a serious risk to your health.

Blessings,
Jasmine

Hmm...how bout' a romantic dinner and some of your favorite perfume?

I remember when I was your age, my b/f cooked and served up (ALL by himself) a romantic dinner for me, with candlesticks and all the hullabaloo of sweet romance.. on the patio...very sweet, I still remember it very fondly.

here's a site to browse..although not very practical, maybe you'll get some ideas:

http://gifts1.lovingyou.com/results/category_search_result.php?SearchCatID=30

Congrats!
Jasmine

Greetings!

I think that there are some of us in life that are always looking for answers..seekers we often are called *smile*.

Sounds like your not looking for a religion insomuch as your looking for spirituality or your "divine spark" or "inner self".

Personally, I classify myself as pagan with Wiccan influence, but I was raised a Christian. I've been actively seeking personal spiritual growth for about fifteen years now..since you were a baby! *geez I'm getting old*

Note, that I'm not recommending this to you..as you must find your own path. Whether it be Christian, Non-denominational, Buddhist, Pagan, Hindu, Atheist, etc.

DISCLAIMER TO THOSE READING THIS: NO I don't do creepy things like eat babies and hurl curses, AND I will not give out any spells (only advice about the subject).

Anyhoo, some people need religion, others seek spirituality, and yet others need nothing at all. My best advice for you is to read as much as you can about different spiritualities, religions and their practices and find what suits you best.

Personally, my first step to spiritual and personal enlightenment began with meditation. I recommend that to everyone- no matter what religion or spirituality you may or may not hold dear. It's an extremely useful tool for stress, helps you discover yourself, and helps you get in touch with your inner needs and wants that reside in your subconscious.

In the meantime, check out this website for research regarding spirituality/religion:

http://www.religioustolerance.org

[url="http://www.religioustolerance.org"]Religious Tolerance [/url]

The above page has tons of information on all types of religions, spiritualities, and practices without prejudice.

And, because I suggested meditation, and this may be the BEST BET for you- here's a great link to get you STARTED to finding your "divine spark", and learning more about yourself:

http://www.usenature.com/article_meditate_how.htm

see if my linking is up to par...

[url=http://www.usenature.com/article_meditate_how.htm]How To Meditate[/url]

Okay..so linking doesn't work on this site..at least in the two ways I know how to link.

As you progress in meditation, you should seek out more meditation techniques that will serve your personal needs. (purification for example)

Blessings,
Jasmine

I'm a 36 year old mom who has too much life experience. I realize that, no matter your age, life throws some crazy curve balls at you when you least expect it. I know in my heart that absolutely no one is perfect..and we all make wrong decisions at one time or another; and sometimes we just need someone to help us out without being judgmental! Furthermore, I think that the only stupid question is the one that you don't ask...knowledge is power.

One of my favorite sayings:
"If you live in a glass house, don't throw stones."

Well folks, we ALL live in glass houses at one time or another!

Never say never,
Jasmine

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